LA PLATA, Md. — La Plata Police Department Captain Matthew Norris was named Acting Chief of Police by Mayor Jeannine James, effective March 21, 2025. Norris, a 15-year veteran of the department, steps into the role after serving as Special Operations Division Commander.
Norris joined the La Plata Police Department (LPPD) in June 2009. His career includes assignments in patrol and the Investigative Division with the Charles County Drug Task Force. Most recently, he oversaw the Criminal Investigations Unit, Narcotics Task Force officers, and personnel at the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center.
Mayor James announced the appointment, stating, “I am pleased to announce that Captain Norris will be serving as our Acting Chief. His extensive knowledge, unwavering dedication, and strong leadership make him an invaluable asset to La Plata.” She added, “Captain Norris has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to our community, and I have no doubt that he will lead with integrity and excellence in this role.”
James also expressed optimism about his tenure. “On behalf of the entire community, I extend my best wishes to Captain Norris. We are fortunate to have him at the helm, and I look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make,” she said.
Norris brings a robust set of credentials. He is certified by the Maryland Police & Correctional Training Commission as an instructor and field training officer, and he is a collision reconstructionist. He holds certifications from the International Association of Chiefs of Police as a Drug Recognition Expert and from the Cooper Institute as a Law Enforcement Fitness Specialist. His education includes a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Towson University and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Liberty University. He graduated from Northwestern University’s 10-week School of Police Staff and Command and completed the Northeast Counterdrug Training Center’s Top Gun Undercover Drug Investigator course.
Norris earned LPPD Officer of the Year in 2021 and a Chief’s Award in 2017. Outside work, he plays competitive men’s league baseball and volunteers as a youth softball and baseball coach and umpire.
The LPPD serves La Plata, a town of about 10,000 residents in Charles County. Norris’ appointment follows the departure of the previous chief, though no details on the transition were provided.
